Two weeks, there was a piece in the NYTimes about Carolyn Porco and her remarkable contributions in imaging the outer planets of our solar system. A protege of Carl Sagan, she is credited as being the model for the character Dr. Ellie Arroway in the book/movie "Contact". Definitely an interesting read.
But today there was an interesting letter called "Eyeing the Cosmos"in the NYTimes, inspired by the article:
...In pondering the possibility of life elsewhere in the cosmos, Dr. Porco echoes yet another august figure in her ancestral patrimony, Marcus Aurelius: “The entire Earth is but a point, and the place of our own habitation but a minute corner of it...
If you have not read Marcus Aurelius, I highly recommend the recent translation by Gregory Hays, "Meditations: Marcus Aurelius" This book belongs on the self of every well-read Pagan/Wiccan/Atheist.
Showing posts with label carl sagan. Show all posts
Showing posts with label carl sagan. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Carl Sagan "Blue Dot" beer
Cheers to the planet
For this Earth Day, a beer inspired by Carl Sagan's 'Pale Blue Dot':
...Hair of the Dog owner and brewer Alan Sprints is “trying to get people to think globally and drink locally,” with his Earth Day public sale at the brewery. The sale celebrates the first release of Blue Dot each spring. Blue Dot, an imperial IPA made with 98 percent organic ingredients, was named for Carl Sagan’s description of this planet, “in order to bring more awareness to the Earth,” Sprints says...
"IPA" stands for 'India Pale Ale', a style of English ale with an assertive addition of hops.
For this Earth Day, a beer inspired by Carl Sagan's 'Pale Blue Dot':
...Hair of the Dog owner and brewer Alan Sprints is “trying to get people to think globally and drink locally,” with his Earth Day public sale at the brewery. The sale celebrates the first release of Blue Dot each spring. Blue Dot, an imperial IPA made with 98 percent organic ingredients, was named for Carl Sagan’s description of this planet, “in order to bring more awareness to the Earth,” Sprints says...
"IPA" stands for 'India Pale Ale', a style of English ale with an assertive addition of hops.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Hypatia: The Movie
Hypatia Comes to the Screen
Article over by Jason over at Wild Hunt about the upcoming movie about the female philosopher Hypatia of Alexandria:
...This film, more than any other recent film set during the classical period, will be closely watched by modern Pagans (especially Hellenic reconstructionists). Many of whom consider Hypatia to be one of the primary martyrs of pre-Christian pagan religion...
Many of us were first enlightened about Hypatia by Carl Sagan in his series Cosmos. The movie is being handled by a good director who is passionate about the material, so there's a good chance this will turn out well.
Article over by Jason over at Wild Hunt about the upcoming movie about the female philosopher Hypatia of Alexandria:
...This film, more than any other recent film set during the classical period, will be closely watched by modern Pagans (especially Hellenic reconstructionists). Many of whom consider Hypatia to be one of the primary martyrs of pre-Christian pagan religion...
Many of us were first enlightened about Hypatia by Carl Sagan in his series Cosmos. The movie is being handled by a good director who is passionate about the material, so there's a good chance this will turn out well.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Billions and Billions of Stamps
Proposed Carl Sagan commemorative stamps unveiled at Ithaca Sciencenter
Gracing our snail mail with the image of the Great Astronomer just might speed things along:
...A movement to immortalize famed Cornell astronomer Carl Sagan with a U.S. postage stamp was launched Feb. 11 for local media at the Ithaca Sciencenter...Patrick Fish, founder of the Utica-based grassroots Sagan Appreciation Society, and Charles Trautmann, executive director of the Sciencenter, unveiled four renderings by three artists or artist teams of proposed Sagan memorial stamps that the society plans to submit to the U.S. Postal Service for commissioning...
All three renderings are wonderful. The one above is my favorite, submitted by Pat Linse of California. I like the fact he's holding a candle, signifying a theme he returned to often: a candle in the dark as a symbol of science and reason holding back the darkness of a demon haunted world. He is also dressed in his characteristic turtleneck and jacket, so familiar to fans of the 'Cosmos' series. In addition, at least in my mind, the comet and observatory in the background speaks to history and archeology, subjects he loved to explore. And the way the candle illuminates his face grants a overall transcendental quality to the image. I think this image would delight someone who use to light up a bowl from time to time.
Greg Mort's submission also has a lot going for it. It's a simple pic of Carl outside in the evening, the Cosmos holding court above him. He has a friendly expression and seems caught in mid sentence, as if is taking you into his confidence, about to explain some impossibly complicated astronomical concept--in the simplest and most easiest to understand manner. Even though it is cold and dark, you are glad you came outside with the astronomer, for some secret of the uncharted universe is to be revealed. He has on his turtleneck, but is protected from the chilly night by a windbreaker.
The submission by Lisa Hutter and Chris Fix shows Carl later in life, his hair gray. He has a suit on and is smiling. Behind him are depictions of the planets. As Carl was a planetary scientist, this is certainly appropriate. Although my first impression of this image was that it was a bit stilted, Carl has such a big smile on his face it sort of won me over.
Please check out the images for yourself.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
2nd Annual Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon: Carl's marching orders
I can't remember exactly where I first read this Sagan quote. But Carl was finishing a lecture when an inquisitive student came forward with a question. "I have many interests," she said, " I'm not sure what I should study or what I should do. But I really want to make a difference in this world." Carl replied, "Anything else you're interested in is not going to happen if you can't breathe the air and drink the water. Don't sit this one out. DO SOMETHING."
Those words always stuck in my mind. But what can I do? I have many interests, but am I actually contributing anything to this planet?
This year, a friend told me about a workshop by an entomologist who studies dragonflies. I've had a life long obsession with insects and spiders, even participating in some research and collecting expeditions, but I knew little about dragonflies--so I decided to go.
Well, now I'm an official 'volunteer entomologist' for the State of New York in the "New York Dragonfly And Damselfly Survey". The goal of this project is to survey the "Odonate" (dragonflies and damselflies) populations of the state. Although NYState has a rich population of these insects, no thorough survey has ever been conducted.
These are significant insects. For one--they eat mosquitoes! Even your most bug-phobic friend will be enamored with that fact! Because the immature stages of Odonates are aquatic, they are indicators of water quality. Although some species can tolerate a mild pollution, most tend to be sensitive to water quality issues. A sudden drop in diversity might indicate someone is dumping something nasty into your swimming hole, recreational lake, or water supply. In a broad sense, a healthy and diverse population of dragonflies may mean a healthy and diverse local environment.
Interest by the general public for these insects is growing, some claiming "dragon watching" is nearly as popular as bird watching. And no wonder! Dragonflies are swift predators, catching their prey on the wing. They exhibit complex behaviors, such as guarding territories and performing unusual mating rituals. Close-up, many are revealed to be beautifully colored with lovely wing patters. Not only that, these insects are completely harmless: they don't have stingers. Even if carelessly handled, the largest ones are only capable of a feeble bite.
If you have a knack for bugs, a love a nature or some time to contribute, consider joining the project. It's funded through 2008. Click on the DDNYS link, and that will get you started.
Even if you are not interested in the survey, dragon watching is a great hobby. If you are a deep bio-geek like I am, you know nature focused hobbies are only as good as their field guides. Up till recently, there was not much in the book department to help the amateur identify these insects. Fortunately, that is changing. Here's two recommendations if you live in the Northeast:
"Damselflies of the Northeast: a Guide to the species of Eastern Canada and the Northeast" by E. Lam. EO Wilson described this book as "a small masterpiece". This is one of the most beautiful guide books I have ever seen. The artwork is stunning.
"A Field Guide to the Dragonflies and Damselflies of Massachusetts" by B. Nikula, J. Ryan, and M. Burne. This book is considered the bible among Odonate fans in the Northeast. There's great macrophotography and detailed drawings to help you key-out the more problematic species.
Click on the titles to find out how to order the books. They are small press, so you order them directly from the publisher.
A more general guide is "Dragonflies through Binoculars" by S. Dunkle. Although not as detailed as the above two books, it covers the entire USA. It's a good book to start with if you just want to test the waters. It's available from online booksellers.
Among us Neo-Pagans, Carl Sagan is considered something of an Avitar, a special individual of great power who brings an important message. (If you think Dalai Lama or Ghandi, you'll have an idea what we mean by Avatar.) When I was new to Wicca, I remember mentioning Sagan and his 'Cosmos' series at a meeting. The entire room got quite at the mention of his name! I asked someone about this later. She rolled her eyes a bit, kidding me about my newbie question. "Of couse" she said, "Sagan was an amazing man, he's an incredible source of inspiration."
One of the primary characteristics of Neo-Paganism is a love of and identification with the Earth. We perform our Sabbats and Rituals to the tune this planet plays. Why not do more than pay lip service to helping the Goddess. She has done so much and shown us so much. Yet it's now so clear she needs our help. In my small way, I think now I have found an area where I can contribute. Whether it's planting trees, saving the whales...whatever, all of us should try to find some niche where we can contribute.
So Wiccans and Neo-Pagans who are reading this, listen to Carl Sagan: DO SOMETHING!
(Check out Joel's Page for more information on Carl Sagan blog-a-thon. Pic from the cover of Ed Lam's "Damselfies of the Norheast")
Saturday, November 17, 2007
comments on comments (or 'zeus', sam iii)
The creatrix of toomanytribbles and I started this conversation because of our opposing views on Mary Lefkowitz's opinion piece. For clarity, here's my original post and here is her's. Our discussions evolved in the comments section of her post. To more adequately reply, she elevated one of my comments to a post. Thanx, toomanytribbles.
Is polytheism more tolerant and multicultural than monotheism?
When different pagan cultures met, their respective Gods and Goddesses got right to work comparing notes on the strange human creatures that danced before them. Then they quickly started trying on each other's clothes. :) They did not command their subjects to wage ideological wars or chop the heads off infidels. Why is this?
Here are a few possibilities: a crowd of deities with many shared characteristics encourages numerous interpretations of the divine, making the religion accommodating to outsiders; numerous cults of contradictory beliefs tend to diverge and not unify; polytheism lacks a dogmatic and politically charged bible (such as the one of Christianity and Islam), so there's nothing for a manipulative government or clergy to latch onto; and most texts on morality and ethics are attributed to historical figures, not deities.
The characteristics above are true of Egyptian mythology, except for one glaring exception:
The Armana period encompassed the rule of the "heretic" pharaoh Akhenaten. During his infamous reign, Akhenaten forcibly instituted a strict form of monotheism. He claimed the God "Aten" as the one true God. Temples were closed and priesthoods disbanded. Images of the other Gods and Goddesses were rounded up and destroyed, even confiscating statuary from household altars. Akhenaten claimed one could only contact the Aten through him: worship Akhenaten--and you worshiped God! In Egyptian art until this time, you'd often see people bowing, kneeling, or making offerings before the divine. But in the Armana period you see citizens prostrate on the ground, groveling before Akhenaten and the Aten. Not only that, there's evidence nay sayers faced execution. All this didn't go over well with the Egyptian people. When Akhenaten was overthrown, the old Gods and Goddesses were quickly re-instituted.
Could Akhenaten's behavior have anything to do with monotheism? People should draw their own conclusions. But, returning to Mount Olympus, I'm impressed with Lefkowitz's findings about Greek mythology. I'm not entirely surprised how it dovetails with other Pagan beliefs. I'm glad there's good research supporting such claims.
As in other polytheistic religions, Wiccans don't proselytize or express their beliefs fanatically. We aren't hobbled by a concept of sin (phew!), yet trying to convince someone of the fallacy of their belief system--or persuade them of the superiority of our own--are big no-nos. We feel that everyone is on their proper spiritual path. Atheism is exactly where you are supposed to be. I'm not stating there's anything wrong with discussing important issues. But pushing opinions down people's throats, or denigrating those who hold alternative viewpoints, is just showboating and egoism. If people are happy, have good friends and family, are satisfied and lead productive lives and mind their own business--who the heck am I to take issue? Happiness is elusive. So, if someone ekes out comfort in their short lives by envisioning a blissful afterlife or casting fortunes, I'm not going to spoil their fun. There's enough suffering in this ragged-clawed world. I'm trying my best not to add to more.
(OTOH, I've been attacked. By that I mean seriously so, not just on internet forums by religionious zealots of the Xtain persuasion. In the USA, there's a movement afoot to spawn a Dominionist, "Big Brother", Right-Wing government. A small yet powerful minority pines for a country that resembles East Germany before the fall of communism, where neighbor spies on neighbor. This is not God, mythology, or the Bible doing any of these things--it's people who happen to be bat-shit crazy. I don't think I am compromising myself by taking such people on.)
There's server filling debates on the topic of Science vs. Religion. Do we really need to add more of these? Some people relish such exercises. Like Ann_C0ulter's fan base, they never grow tired of listening to her screeds. I think you and I are comfortable enough in our beliefs not to need reinforcement from soap-boxers.
Now, on to some of your comments:
...we're animals with an enormous evolutionary history...
OK, I think that's something we can agree on. :)
...even though our ability to reason is a fairly new 'trick,' it's obvious that it has done more good than harm. Think about what life was actually like for us humans 10,000 years ago -- or 500 or >even 100. isn't our moral standard changing and improving...
Of course there's great strides in science and medicine. However, we elite are the ones sucking that teat. (I don't buy Pinker's assessment of genocide and crime in the last century. He conveniently qualifies his data with "...at least in Western society." Of course, you realize Pinker has his critics, but I'm not interested in fighting that battle.) Since you brought up animals, I'm sure the Blue whale is very impressed with our noble standard. Mother Earth must think this Global Warming thing is a real kick! Thanx to our bone-headed behavior, our recent history has brought a global wide extinction, rivaling the effects of a cometary impact. Those are quite some accomplishments. To be clear, I feel the quotient of human suffering has not changed much over the centuries. Too few fruits of Western society are benefiting the rest of humanity.
...are you actually saying that fascism or totalitarianism is a result of critical thinking and rationality? were these dark episodes, truly, supported by logic and reason? in what way? or were they simply purported to, then and now?
Exactly my point: I'm not saying that. Our better qualities are not to blame. No Luddite arguments from me, my friend. :)
...mary lefkowitz says, '...but the poison isn't religion; it's monotheism.' i disagree.. the poison isn't monotheism -- the poison is belief in the supernatural without evidence -- i.e. religion
Yikes! Religion=Poison? If you hold the reactionary position that practicing religion is equivalent to everything anal, banal, and dread, such as slavery, human sacrifice, or genital warts, we are just wasting our time. Is there a point in having this discussion if you won't consider anything I say? Why not just blame cooking technology for the fact that people got shoved alive into ovens during WWII.
...we're 'way more' enlightened than our ancestors. we know so much more about our cosmos, our bodies, our origins and history and our place in the universe. isn't this enlightenment helping us reject slavery and racism and the burning of witches?
Who would argue against reason and enlightenment? That would be like arguing against truth and beauty. I know Atheists are capable of great truth and beauty. The sad thing is, not everybody likes science. Many people don't feel the quality of fulfillment you or I receive from it. Yet, I think we should work together on the issues facing us. Btw, thanx for throwing in the 'witch' part! :) The sad thing is, some people never learn.
...of course we act differently than we used to. not all of us, and not always -- but i think there's a definite shift towards the better, with ample evidence.
OK. We just have a difference of opinion. I feel there's evidence in support of my position.
...of course we can't know of every possible thing in the universe. scientists, in fact, don't claim to -- but theists do... and not just nebulous suspicions, but specifics as to what we can eat or how we can dress or against whom we can rub our bodies (or, as hitchens says, what bits of them we should saw off with sharp stones...
Ouch! This is a "frame" free blog! Besides, the last straw man here was burnt up at Lugh. Wicca in no way resembles what you just described. We are not faith based or absolutist. We don't enforce hurtful proscriptions.
...in the face of not only a complete lack of evidence, but a complete lack of any concrete indication for deities (ancient polytheistic or primitive monotheistic), xenus, leprechauns, >poltergeists, fairies, etc., etc...the most intellectually honest stance is not believing in these things until we have sufficient reason to. maybe these things are not disprovable -- but are they even probable?
Heh! Why do you Atheists always bring up these weird creatures? It's as if you're in love with those things! Do you & your Atheist friends have some kinky/erotic thing going on with them or something? If you do, why not let us in on the fun! :)
Having spent time practicing my religion with like-minded people, let me assure you: leprechauns don't find their way into the conversation too often. But I fear this is arguing from the extremes. Next you'll be saying "You like to read your horoscope in the newspapers--SO YOU BELIEVE IN LEPRECHAUNS!"
I know you're aware there's considerable evidence that "little people" did exist. It's even possible the Amazons of Greek mythology existed. But Fairies, you ask? I'm just finding out about the branch of Wicca known as the Feri Tradition. Recently, I had the pleasure of being befriended by two such beings. (wink!) . Also, one of the contributors to the fine tradition posts here from time to time. I agree there's scant evidence of ghosts, but I have a horrific story that happened to me:
I came to Atheism gradually. By the time I was a teenager, I figured God did not exist. Years later, a friend who really trusted me confessed she was plagued with ghosts. She had been seeing them since she was a child. She was someone who experienced many hardships in life, and suddenly found herself thrust into a bad living situation. Once ensconced in her new place, she discovered it had a history putting the "The Sentinel" to shame! She was terrified, hearing strange noises at night and seeing things in the shadows. She was in sorry state when finally telling me all this. How did I react? Basically I gave her the spiritual back of my hand and laughed off her concerns. You could not escape the look of shock and betrayal that swept over her. It was much later that I discovered the harm I had done. Why didn't I just commit to losing a night while holding someone's hand? Would it have helped explaining it was only a creaky radiator, or those angry voices were nothing but the drunken fights of upstairs neighbors? Would this have been handled differently if I was not so full of my Atheist self? I don't know, I have not figured that out. Someday, I hope to make it up to her. Until then, I am still haunted by the look on her face. I told you this was a horrific ghost story!
...so, back to the ancient greeks -- from what i understand...it's quite probable that theirs was amore multicultural and tolerant religion...the greek myths have a great deal to teach us, when not >taken literally, and they do lack the arrogance and narcisism present in even non-literal christianity...on the other hand, the greek gods were spiteful and petty and humanity was a minor irritant.
I'm also trying to figure these things out. Seeking people to challenge assumptions always helps. I'm fascinated that many scholars may have it wrong about the Greek Gods. Your mileage may vary.
...but you see, today we don't have to choose either. so can we just keep the tolerance and multiculturalism, insights and relevance to the human condition, and leave out the religion? can't we study and learn from them without espousing them?
Heh! Can we dance without paying the piper? Do we have to "believe in" the religion in order to learn from it? Good question. I-have-no-clue! But can we look at it like this: someone can intellectualize meditation, but won't get the benefits until it's practiced and experienced. In certain Buddhist traditions, after hours of chanting, music, and prayer, the group evokes certain Deities. If those entities can't be manifested--in all their beauty and terror--the students don't advance in training. I get the impression "believing in" is the stumbling block for you. You demand proof! Faith is not good enough. Those are reasonable demands. But instead of "believing in", what would you say to "practicing a" religion? Would that be entirely objectionable?
Could this insistence on belief and faith and diaphanous beings be a requirement of monotheism--not polytheism? In Egypt, the Gods and Goddesses rarely ask for testaments of belief. The questions from the Gods and Goddesses found carved into temples, or written in Books of the Dead, ask us to honored them, keep the Sabbats, and make proper offerings. Demonstrations of belief and faith are minor issues, compared to good intentions and encouraging justice. They don't ask us to abandon reason or intelligence, qualities they highly valued in themselves, and most importantly--in us. I'm discovering the same holds true for the Greek Gods and Goddesses.
Since the deities have never ask me to believe in them, why should I have too? It seems that's not part of the bargain. The Gods and Goddesses have given us much. Honoring them is little payment, especially when we don't have to swallow their theology whole.
...bring back the ancient greek gods? no, let's not.
I'm not so sure they ever left. :)
Is polytheism more tolerant and multicultural than monotheism?
When different pagan cultures met, their respective Gods and Goddesses got right to work comparing notes on the strange human creatures that danced before them. Then they quickly started trying on each other's clothes. :) They did not command their subjects to wage ideological wars or chop the heads off infidels. Why is this?
Here are a few possibilities: a crowd of deities with many shared characteristics encourages numerous interpretations of the divine, making the religion accommodating to outsiders; numerous cults of contradictory beliefs tend to diverge and not unify; polytheism lacks a dogmatic and politically charged bible (such as the one of Christianity and Islam), so there's nothing for a manipulative government or clergy to latch onto; and most texts on morality and ethics are attributed to historical figures, not deities.
The characteristics above are true of Egyptian mythology, except for one glaring exception:
The Armana period encompassed the rule of the "heretic" pharaoh Akhenaten. During his infamous reign, Akhenaten forcibly instituted a strict form of monotheism. He claimed the God "Aten" as the one true God. Temples were closed and priesthoods disbanded. Images of the other Gods and Goddesses were rounded up and destroyed, even confiscating statuary from household altars. Akhenaten claimed one could only contact the Aten through him: worship Akhenaten--and you worshiped God! In Egyptian art until this time, you'd often see people bowing, kneeling, or making offerings before the divine. But in the Armana period you see citizens prostrate on the ground, groveling before Akhenaten and the Aten. Not only that, there's evidence nay sayers faced execution. All this didn't go over well with the Egyptian people. When Akhenaten was overthrown, the old Gods and Goddesses were quickly re-instituted.
Could Akhenaten's behavior have anything to do with monotheism? People should draw their own conclusions. But, returning to Mount Olympus, I'm impressed with Lefkowitz's findings about Greek mythology. I'm not entirely surprised how it dovetails with other Pagan beliefs. I'm glad there's good research supporting such claims.
As in other polytheistic religions, Wiccans don't proselytize or express their beliefs fanatically. We aren't hobbled by a concept of sin (phew!), yet trying to convince someone of the fallacy of their belief system--or persuade them of the superiority of our own--are big no-nos. We feel that everyone is on their proper spiritual path. Atheism is exactly where you are supposed to be. I'm not stating there's anything wrong with discussing important issues. But pushing opinions down people's throats, or denigrating those who hold alternative viewpoints, is just showboating and egoism. If people are happy, have good friends and family, are satisfied and lead productive lives and mind their own business--who the heck am I to take issue? Happiness is elusive. So, if someone ekes out comfort in their short lives by envisioning a blissful afterlife or casting fortunes, I'm not going to spoil their fun. There's enough suffering in this ragged-clawed world. I'm trying my best not to add to more.
(OTOH, I've been attacked. By that I mean seriously so, not just on internet forums by religionious zealots of the Xtain persuasion. In the USA, there's a movement afoot to spawn a Dominionist, "Big Brother", Right-Wing government. A small yet powerful minority pines for a country that resembles East Germany before the fall of communism, where neighbor spies on neighbor. This is not God, mythology, or the Bible doing any of these things--it's people who happen to be bat-shit crazy. I don't think I am compromising myself by taking such people on.)
There's server filling debates on the topic of Science vs. Religion. Do we really need to add more of these? Some people relish such exercises. Like Ann_C0ulter's fan base, they never grow tired of listening to her screeds. I think you and I are comfortable enough in our beliefs not to need reinforcement from soap-boxers.
Now, on to some of your comments:
...we're animals with an enormous evolutionary history...
OK, I think that's something we can agree on. :)
...even though our ability to reason is a fairly new 'trick,' it's obvious that it has done more good than harm. Think about what life was actually like for us humans 10,000 years ago -- or 500 or >even 100. isn't our moral standard changing and improving...
Of course there's great strides in science and medicine. However, we elite are the ones sucking that teat. (I don't buy Pinker's assessment of genocide and crime in the last century. He conveniently qualifies his data with "...at least in Western society." Of course, you realize Pinker has his critics, but I'm not interested in fighting that battle.) Since you brought up animals, I'm sure the Blue whale is very impressed with our noble standard. Mother Earth must think this Global Warming thing is a real kick! Thanx to our bone-headed behavior, our recent history has brought a global wide extinction, rivaling the effects of a cometary impact. Those are quite some accomplishments. To be clear, I feel the quotient of human suffering has not changed much over the centuries. Too few fruits of Western society are benefiting the rest of humanity.
...are you actually saying that fascism or totalitarianism is a result of critical thinking and rationality? were these dark episodes, truly, supported by logic and reason? in what way? or were they simply purported to, then and now?
Exactly my point: I'm not saying that. Our better qualities are not to blame. No Luddite arguments from me, my friend. :)
...mary lefkowitz says, '...but the poison isn't religion; it's monotheism.' i disagree.. the poison isn't monotheism -- the poison is belief in the supernatural without evidence -- i.e. religion
Yikes! Religion=Poison? If you hold the reactionary position that practicing religion is equivalent to everything anal, banal, and dread, such as slavery, human sacrifice, or genital warts, we are just wasting our time. Is there a point in having this discussion if you won't consider anything I say? Why not just blame cooking technology for the fact that people got shoved alive into ovens during WWII.
...we're 'way more' enlightened than our ancestors. we know so much more about our cosmos, our bodies, our origins and history and our place in the universe. isn't this enlightenment helping us reject slavery and racism and the burning of witches?
Who would argue against reason and enlightenment? That would be like arguing against truth and beauty. I know Atheists are capable of great truth and beauty. The sad thing is, not everybody likes science. Many people don't feel the quality of fulfillment you or I receive from it. Yet, I think we should work together on the issues facing us. Btw, thanx for throwing in the 'witch' part! :) The sad thing is, some people never learn.
...of course we act differently than we used to. not all of us, and not always -- but i think there's a definite shift towards the better, with ample evidence.
OK. We just have a difference of opinion. I feel there's evidence in support of my position.
...of course we can't know of every possible thing in the universe. scientists, in fact, don't claim to -- but theists do... and not just nebulous suspicions, but specifics as to what we can eat or how we can dress or against whom we can rub our bodies (or, as hitchens says, what bits of them we should saw off with sharp stones...
Ouch! This is a "frame" free blog! Besides, the last straw man here was burnt up at Lugh. Wicca in no way resembles what you just described. We are not faith based or absolutist. We don't enforce hurtful proscriptions.
...in the face of not only a complete lack of evidence, but a complete lack of any concrete indication for deities (ancient polytheistic or primitive monotheistic), xenus, leprechauns, >poltergeists, fairies, etc., etc...the most intellectually honest stance is not believing in these things until we have sufficient reason to. maybe these things are not disprovable -- but are they even probable?
Heh! Why do you Atheists always bring up these weird creatures? It's as if you're in love with those things! Do you & your Atheist friends have some kinky/erotic thing going on with them or something? If you do, why not let us in on the fun! :)
Having spent time practicing my religion with like-minded people, let me assure you: leprechauns don't find their way into the conversation too often. But I fear this is arguing from the extremes. Next you'll be saying "You like to read your horoscope in the newspapers--SO YOU BELIEVE IN LEPRECHAUNS!"
I know you're aware there's considerable evidence that "little people" did exist. It's even possible the Amazons of Greek mythology existed. But Fairies, you ask? I'm just finding out about the branch of Wicca known as the Feri Tradition. Recently, I had the pleasure of being befriended by two such beings. (wink!) . Also, one of the contributors to the fine tradition posts here from time to time. I agree there's scant evidence of ghosts, but I have a horrific story that happened to me:
I came to Atheism gradually. By the time I was a teenager, I figured God did not exist. Years later, a friend who really trusted me confessed she was plagued with ghosts. She had been seeing them since she was a child. She was someone who experienced many hardships in life, and suddenly found herself thrust into a bad living situation. Once ensconced in her new place, she discovered it had a history putting the "The Sentinel" to shame! She was terrified, hearing strange noises at night and seeing things in the shadows. She was in sorry state when finally telling me all this. How did I react? Basically I gave her the spiritual back of my hand and laughed off her concerns. You could not escape the look of shock and betrayal that swept over her. It was much later that I discovered the harm I had done. Why didn't I just commit to losing a night while holding someone's hand? Would it have helped explaining it was only a creaky radiator, or those angry voices were nothing but the drunken fights of upstairs neighbors? Would this have been handled differently if I was not so full of my Atheist self? I don't know, I have not figured that out. Someday, I hope to make it up to her. Until then, I am still haunted by the look on her face. I told you this was a horrific ghost story!
...so, back to the ancient greeks -- from what i understand...it's quite probable that theirs was amore multicultural and tolerant religion...the greek myths have a great deal to teach us, when not >taken literally, and they do lack the arrogance and narcisism present in even non-literal christianity...on the other hand, the greek gods were spiteful and petty and humanity was a minor irritant.
I'm also trying to figure these things out. Seeking people to challenge assumptions always helps. I'm fascinated that many scholars may have it wrong about the Greek Gods. Your mileage may vary.
...but you see, today we don't have to choose either. so can we just keep the tolerance and multiculturalism, insights and relevance to the human condition, and leave out the religion? can't we study and learn from them without espousing them?
Heh! Can we dance without paying the piper? Do we have to "believe in" the religion in order to learn from it? Good question. I-have-no-clue! But can we look at it like this: someone can intellectualize meditation, but won't get the benefits until it's practiced and experienced. In certain Buddhist traditions, after hours of chanting, music, and prayer, the group evokes certain Deities. If those entities can't be manifested--in all their beauty and terror--the students don't advance in training. I get the impression "believing in" is the stumbling block for you. You demand proof! Faith is not good enough. Those are reasonable demands. But instead of "believing in", what would you say to "practicing a" religion? Would that be entirely objectionable?
Could this insistence on belief and faith and diaphanous beings be a requirement of monotheism--not polytheism? In Egypt, the Gods and Goddesses rarely ask for testaments of belief. The questions from the Gods and Goddesses found carved into temples, or written in Books of the Dead, ask us to honored them, keep the Sabbats, and make proper offerings. Demonstrations of belief and faith are minor issues, compared to good intentions and encouraging justice. They don't ask us to abandon reason or intelligence, qualities they highly valued in themselves, and most importantly--in us. I'm discovering the same holds true for the Greek Gods and Goddesses.
Since the deities have never ask me to believe in them, why should I have too? It seems that's not part of the bargain. The Gods and Goddesses have given us much. Honoring them is little payment, especially when we don't have to swallow their theology whole.
...bring back the ancient greek gods? no, let's not.
I'm not so sure they ever left. :)
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Sagan, Cheech, and Chong
Smoke more pot, says Kirsten Dunst
Spider Man actress Kirsten Dunst believes the world would be a "better place" if more people smoked marijuana:
"...My best friend Sasha's dad was Carl Sagan, the astronomer. He was the biggest pot smoker in the world and he was a genius."
Wow! Something like a quote right out of Cheech and Chong, "Carl Sagan smoked pot, and HE'S NOT SO STUPID!". Good old Carl influences the world in so many ways.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Anti Sagan Blog-a-thon
Hedonistic Left and Global Warming
Now where the hell was this article for the Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon? What a pleasantly twisted surprise to find my favorite Carl Sagan quote--the one that inspired my blog--vilified over at Human Events!
...Note also that the elitists who make the most noise about the "purity" of nature never apply that concern to human nature: they have made careers out of corrupting it. The self-appointed prophets of an environmental apocalypse from Hollywood and New York are the forces most responsible for engineering a secularist culture which is remarkable in the history of all cultures for its moral obviousness and its utter indifference to the future, much less the moral welfare of children...
Damn, and I thought we had everyone fooled when we shed crocodile tears over Polar bears drowning in the mud:
...Their faith in global warming is so strong they find themselves demanding the sorts of duties and sacrifices they discount in any other area of life. The pushy and judgmental piety of relativists on environmental issues is bottomless, amounting to a quasi-pantheism. It appears that what pop scientist Carl Sagan once said is coming to pass: "A religion old or new, that stressed the magnificence of the universe as revealed by modern science, might be able to draw forth reserves of reverence and awe hardly tapped by the conventional faiths. Sooner or later, such a religion will emerge..."
So that's what Carl Sagan was, a "pop scientist"! I suppose that means he got mail-order degrees from paper institutions, just like the charlatans who run Creationist and Intelligent Design "institutes". You gotta hand it to the author--he manages to demonize all the loony right's favorite targets: environmentalists, investigative journalists, concerned politicians, the majority of the world's scientists, plus intelligent and tolerant people the world over. It comes as no surprise he thinks we are the ones hell-bent on destroying the world as-he-knows-it, with our Hollywood-hyped Greenhouse propaganda! It's such a shame we were found out! We were all having such a good time laughing all the way to the Rapture, while enacting the real Apocalypse inducing threats to our planet: decadent lifestyles, abortion, secular humanism, and that final civilization leveling ace up Satan's farting hole--gay marriage!
I can't help noticing how much the Global warming deniers, Intelligent Design advocates, and other Dominionsts keep claiming the growing mountains of evidence of evolution, and increasing record breaking temperatures, is not proof of anything--but just some sort of New Age religion. I'm pretty sure everyone who follows such stories (and believe me, you have my sympathies for the patience to wade through such muck) has seen an up-tick in this technique. Most times I feel pieces like this are just hysterically funny, but it's frightening so many people actually believe such brain-dead crap. I suppose we can find comfort in the fact that the writer is so terribly wrong about everything. It's nice to be on the opposite side of the fence from such twisted people.
Let's also take comfort in the fact there are many heroic people, giving their all, helping this planet and its inhabitants. Yet we must keep in mind how others love nothing more than to demonize such people. It reminds me once again of the great comment in Margot Adler's Neo-Pagan masterpiece, Drawing Down the Moon:
"Life celebration is always a threat to those bent on destruction".
Now where the hell was this article for the Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon? What a pleasantly twisted surprise to find my favorite Carl Sagan quote--the one that inspired my blog--vilified over at Human Events!
...Note also that the elitists who make the most noise about the "purity" of nature never apply that concern to human nature: they have made careers out of corrupting it. The self-appointed prophets of an environmental apocalypse from Hollywood and New York are the forces most responsible for engineering a secularist culture which is remarkable in the history of all cultures for its moral obviousness and its utter indifference to the future, much less the moral welfare of children...
Damn, and I thought we had everyone fooled when we shed crocodile tears over Polar bears drowning in the mud:
...Their faith in global warming is so strong they find themselves demanding the sorts of duties and sacrifices they discount in any other area of life. The pushy and judgmental piety of relativists on environmental issues is bottomless, amounting to a quasi-pantheism. It appears that what pop scientist Carl Sagan once said is coming to pass: "A religion old or new, that stressed the magnificence of the universe as revealed by modern science, might be able to draw forth reserves of reverence and awe hardly tapped by the conventional faiths. Sooner or later, such a religion will emerge..."
So that's what Carl Sagan was, a "pop scientist"! I suppose that means he got mail-order degrees from paper institutions, just like the charlatans who run Creationist and Intelligent Design "institutes". You gotta hand it to the author--he manages to demonize all the loony right's favorite targets: environmentalists, investigative journalists, concerned politicians, the majority of the world's scientists, plus intelligent and tolerant people the world over. It comes as no surprise he thinks we are the ones hell-bent on destroying the world as-he-knows-it, with our Hollywood-hyped Greenhouse propaganda! It's such a shame we were found out! We were all having such a good time laughing all the way to the Rapture, while enacting the real Apocalypse inducing threats to our planet: decadent lifestyles, abortion, secular humanism, and that final civilization leveling ace up Satan's farting hole--gay marriage!
I can't help noticing how much the Global warming deniers, Intelligent Design advocates, and other Dominionsts keep claiming the growing mountains of evidence of evolution, and increasing record breaking temperatures, is not proof of anything--but just some sort of New Age religion. I'm pretty sure everyone who follows such stories (and believe me, you have my sympathies for the patience to wade through such muck) has seen an up-tick in this technique. Most times I feel pieces like this are just hysterically funny, but it's frightening so many people actually believe such brain-dead crap. I suppose we can find comfort in the fact that the writer is so terribly wrong about everything. It's nice to be on the opposite side of the fence from such twisted people.
Let's also take comfort in the fact there are many heroic people, giving their all, helping this planet and its inhabitants. Yet we must keep in mind how others love nothing more than to demonize such people. It reminds me once again of the great comment in Margot Adler's Neo-Pagan masterpiece, Drawing Down the Moon:
"Life celebration is always a threat to those bent on destruction".
Thursday, January 4, 2007
The Methane Lakes of Titan
Titan Has Liquid Lakes, Scientists Report in Nature
It's like something from a science fiction story. But nothing is more remarkable than reality. Not only that, scientists like Carl Sagan predicted this:
Scientists report definitive evidence of the presence of lakes filled with liquid methane on Saturn's moon Titan in this week's journal Nature cover story.
That's something great about science: its predictions have a good track record in the 'coming true' department, much better than other forms of divination.
It's like something from a science fiction story. But nothing is more remarkable than reality. Not only that, scientists like Carl Sagan predicted this:
Scientists report definitive evidence of the presence of lakes filled with liquid methane on Saturn's moon Titan in this week's journal Nature cover story.
That's something great about science: its predictions have a good track record in the 'coming true' department, much better than other forms of divination.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Carolyn Porco--Planetary Scientist!
Carolyn Porco 'doing the carl sagan thing'
The creatrix behind toomanytribbles made a meaningful contribution to the Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon. She now introduces us to Carolyn Porco, and her lecture at the Beyond Belief Conference:
dr. porco is a renowned planetary scientist, an imaging scientist for NASA and the leader for the cassini science imaging team, a truly inspiring speaker on science and spirituality. ...in the conference, she addressed the subjects of religion and the existence of god, life, death, and the meaning we can find in both -- especially the importance our fear of death and how it may lead some of us to believe in the supernatural. her views on how we can replace this fear, especially in children, with a sense of wonder and one-ness with the cosmos, was, i believe, one of the best points in her presentation.
Catch a buzz from Sagan's stashbag! Expand your mind! You can download Session 3 of Carolyn's presentation.
The creatrix behind toomanytribbles made a meaningful contribution to the Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon. She now introduces us to Carolyn Porco, and her lecture at the Beyond Belief Conference:
dr. porco is a renowned planetary scientist, an imaging scientist for NASA and the leader for the cassini science imaging team, a truly inspiring speaker on science and spirituality. ...in the conference, she addressed the subjects of religion and the existence of god, life, death, and the meaning we can find in both -- especially the importance our fear of death and how it may lead some of us to believe in the supernatural. her views on how we can replace this fear, especially in children, with a sense of wonder and one-ness with the cosmos, was, i believe, one of the best points in her presentation.
Catch a buzz from Sagan's stashbag! Expand your mind! You can download Session 3 of Carolyn's presentation.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon Success --Thanx, Joel
Carl Sagan 'blog-a-thon' is well underway
The Blog-a-thon now has over 70 meta-posts! It's been a great success. Good job, Joel. Of course, some in the MSM are comparing it more to a "geek-a-thon". Figures they'd say something like that. Me, I think more "bong-a-thon", Heh. However you cut it, it's getting some great publicity.
Heres my post:
Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon
The Blog-a-thon now has over 70 meta-posts! It's been a great success. Good job, Joel. Of course, some in the MSM are comparing it more to a "geek-a-thon". Figures they'd say something like that. Me, I think more "bong-a-thon", Heh. However you cut it, it's getting some great publicity.
Heres my post:
Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon
Friday, December 15, 2006
Carl Sagan Blog-a-thon
Announcing the Carl Sagan memorial blog-a-thon
Dec 20th marks a decade that the great scientist Carl Sagan passed over to SummerIsle. To commemorate this event, Joel Schlosberg is hosting a Carl Sagan memorial blog-a-thon!
This is for you, Carl:
Carl Sagan made a huge difference in our world. His accomplishments run the gamut from obscure elements of planetary science, all the way to factors which influence the survival of our species. He inspired millions with his groundbreaking PBS series, Cosmos; he explained the wonders of the world through a number of best-selling books, and authored scientific publications and pieces for the popular press; he was always in the public eye, never dodging a chance to explain the universe through interviews, press conferences, and guest spots on television talk shows. With his friendly and oftentimes humorous approach, he rendered some of the most complex issues understandable to a scientifically tin-eared public.
Carl showed us the universe was remarkable and awe inspiring. It did not need the policing of superstitions to make it more wonderful. He taught us that we could be spiritual, even devoutly so, yet not be tied down to a dogmatic or archaic religion. In Cosmos, arguably one of the greatest science series ever produced, Carl spent considerable time delving into the history of science. We learned how badly intolerance impacted the well-being of civilization. What struck home for me was the brutal murder, in 415 AD, of the Alexandrian philosopher, Hypatia. By all accounts she was beautiful, and rose to intellectual stardom in a world dominated by men. She was targeted by an early Christian Church Archbishop, Cyril:
"In great personal danger, she continued to teach and publish, until, in the year 415, on her way to work, she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and, armed with abalone shells, flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint."
Here is a prime example of empowered religious intolerance, gleefully stamping out beauty and intelligence. Carl points out that the 'new learning' was feared by early church founders, who considering such knowledge "Pagan" and in need of eradication. It was a revelation to learn, that during times of oppression, scientists were burned along with heretics and witches. How tragic that is! Can someone tell me if such fanatical oppressors have ever been right about anything?
Look at what's happening in the US and the world: scientists who study global warming are ridiculed; environmental regulations are cut back for short term financial gain; extinction advances on a near cataclysmic scale; the teaching of 'evolution', one the most beautiful and enlightening concepts ever revealed--the pillar of biology, and by extension all other sciences--suffers unrelenting attack from religions and political extremists. The very planet that birthed us, our 'Mother Earth", is unrelentingly being defiled.
Once again, Alexandria is poised to be ransacked and destroyed, our library burned. But now, not only do we have each other, we are armed to the teeth with the words and deeds of Carl Sagan. And if someone wants to lay a finger on Hypatia, it will be over our dead bodies!
Dec 20th marks a decade that the great scientist Carl Sagan passed over to SummerIsle. To commemorate this event, Joel Schlosberg is hosting a Carl Sagan memorial blog-a-thon!
This is for you, Carl:
Carl Sagan made a huge difference in our world. His accomplishments run the gamut from obscure elements of planetary science, all the way to factors which influence the survival of our species. He inspired millions with his groundbreaking PBS series, Cosmos; he explained the wonders of the world through a number of best-selling books, and authored scientific publications and pieces for the popular press; he was always in the public eye, never dodging a chance to explain the universe through interviews, press conferences, and guest spots on television talk shows. With his friendly and oftentimes humorous approach, he rendered some of the most complex issues understandable to a scientifically tin-eared public.
Carl showed us the universe was remarkable and awe inspiring. It did not need the policing of superstitions to make it more wonderful. He taught us that we could be spiritual, even devoutly so, yet not be tied down to a dogmatic or archaic religion. In Cosmos, arguably one of the greatest science series ever produced, Carl spent considerable time delving into the history of science. We learned how badly intolerance impacted the well-being of civilization. What struck home for me was the brutal murder, in 415 AD, of the Alexandrian philosopher, Hypatia. By all accounts she was beautiful, and rose to intellectual stardom in a world dominated by men. She was targeted by an early Christian Church Archbishop, Cyril:
"In great personal danger, she continued to teach and publish, until, in the year 415, on her way to work, she was set upon by a fanatical mob of Cyril's parishioners. They dragged her from her chariot, tore off her clothes, and, armed with abalone shells, flayed her flesh from her bones. Her remains were burned, her works obliterated, her name forgotten. Cyril was made a saint."
Here is a prime example of empowered religious intolerance, gleefully stamping out beauty and intelligence. Carl points out that the 'new learning' was feared by early church founders, who considering such knowledge "Pagan" and in need of eradication. It was a revelation to learn, that during times of oppression, scientists were burned along with heretics and witches. How tragic that is! Can someone tell me if such fanatical oppressors have ever been right about anything?
Look at what's happening in the US and the world: scientists who study global warming are ridiculed; environmental regulations are cut back for short term financial gain; extinction advances on a near cataclysmic scale; the teaching of 'evolution', one the most beautiful and enlightening concepts ever revealed--the pillar of biology, and by extension all other sciences--suffers unrelenting attack from religions and political extremists. The very planet that birthed us, our 'Mother Earth", is unrelentingly being defiled.
Once again, Alexandria is poised to be ransacked and destroyed, our library burned. But now, not only do we have each other, we are armed to the teeth with the words and deeds of Carl Sagan. And if someone wants to lay a finger on Hypatia, it will be over our dead bodies!
Friday, December 8, 2006
Famous Telescope Threatened
Future Dimming for Puerto Rico Telescope
The Arecibo Radio Telescope, which featured prominently in the Film Contact (based on the novel writen by Carl Sagan), and starring Jodie Foster as an astronomer, is facing crippling budget cutbacks.
"The whole world loses if funding is lost for Arecibo," said Lance Benner, a research scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif. He uses the telescope to track near-earth asteroids. "We're a very inexpensive form of insurance for the whole planet." The telescope is so prized that astronomers let out a collective shudder in November when a review panel recommended the U.S. cut 25 percent of the observatory's $10.5 million astronomy budget next year and consider eliminating it entirely at the end of the decade. The panel suggested that the private sector or overseas institutions could pay part of Arecibo's costs..."
One plot element in the film concerned the actions of a crazed xtian fundamentalist who tries to sabotage our first contact with intelligent extraterrestrials. Once again, reality imitates art: Arecibo is engaged in SETI! Hopefully, with the new line-up in the US House and Senate, the funding of this beautiful telescope will be restored.
Interested in actually helping in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence? And have some spare computer power to donate? Check out SETI@Home, and soon you'll be joining others across the world in this remarkable quest.
The Arecibo Radio Telescope, which featured prominently in the Film Contact (based on the novel writen by Carl Sagan), and starring Jodie Foster as an astronomer, is facing crippling budget cutbacks.
"The whole world loses if funding is lost for Arecibo," said Lance Benner, a research scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, Calif. He uses the telescope to track near-earth asteroids. "We're a very inexpensive form of insurance for the whole planet." The telescope is so prized that astronomers let out a collective shudder in November when a review panel recommended the U.S. cut 25 percent of the observatory's $10.5 million astronomy budget next year and consider eliminating it entirely at the end of the decade. The panel suggested that the private sector or overseas institutions could pay part of Arecibo's costs..."
One plot element in the film concerned the actions of a crazed xtian fundamentalist who tries to sabotage our first contact with intelligent extraterrestrials. Once again, reality imitates art: Arecibo is engaged in SETI! Hopefully, with the new line-up in the US House and Senate, the funding of this beautiful telescope will be restored.
Interested in actually helping in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence? And have some spare computer power to donate? Check out SETI@Home, and soon you'll be joining others across the world in this remarkable quest.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Let's sing XTC's 'Dear God' this Yule!
The 17 Books I Read Along The Way
Actress Julia Sweeney's blog features a excellent list of her 17 favorite religious books. Most are scathing critiques of the Judeo-Christian interpretation of "God". I feel books like these should be embraced by Wicca, as a healthy dose of skepticism is a always a good thing. Not only that, but such clear thinking helps our evolving spirituality avoid some of the devastating pitfalls of Monotheism. Several also serve as good rebuttals to the disingenuous idiocy of Intelligent Design and Creationism.
I can't think of better stocking stuffers this Yule, especially if you have any faith obsessed friends or family members. My favorite on the list is Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan's "The Demon Haunted World, Science as a Candle In The Dark". Sweeney mentions the chapter 'Real Patriots Ask Questions'. Isn't it amazing how prescient the scientist authors were!
Actress Julia Sweeney's blog features a excellent list of her 17 favorite religious books. Most are scathing critiques of the Judeo-Christian interpretation of "God". I feel books like these should be embraced by Wicca, as a healthy dose of skepticism is a always a good thing. Not only that, but such clear thinking helps our evolving spirituality avoid some of the devastating pitfalls of Monotheism. Several also serve as good rebuttals to the disingenuous idiocy of Intelligent Design and Creationism.
I can't think of better stocking stuffers this Yule, especially if you have any faith obsessed friends or family members. My favorite on the list is Carl Sagan and Ann Druyan's "The Demon Haunted World, Science as a Candle In The Dark". Sweeney mentions the chapter 'Real Patriots Ask Questions'. Isn't it amazing how prescient the scientist authors were!
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